Christian Health Association of Lesotho Suspends US-Funded Projects Following US Executive Order
The Christian Health Association of Lesotho (CHAL) has announced the suspension of all United States (US)-funded project activities, including the halt of work by all project staff, following a directive issued by the US government. This move, outlined in a letter dated January 29th, was communicated to all CHAL hospitals involved in the Bophelo Bo Botle (BBB) project, which aims to improve health services in the country.
The letter, written by CHAL’s Executive Director Mrs. ‘Makatleho Mohasi, cited the “suspension of services for three months” as a result of an executive order from the US under its new administration, led by President Donald Trump. This decision has led to the temporary cessation of critical health services and the suspension of activities under US-funded projects across CHAL-run hospitals.
In her letter, Mrs. Mohasi conveyed that this decision comes after the US government issued an executive order to pause work on all US-funded projects, including those that support public health initiatives like the BBB project. The BBB project, which focuses on enhancing healthcare services in rural and underserved areas of Lesotho, has been a key partner in addressing health challenges, particularly in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
“This decision is a direct result of the US government’s executive order, which has affected the funding for our ongoing projects. As a result, we have been forced to pause all related services and suspend the involvement of our project staff for the next three months,” stated Mrs. Mohasi in the letter.
The suspension of the US-funded projects has raised concerns within Lesotho, especially given the critical role these initiatives play in the country’s healthcare system. CHAL has been a key partner in implementing healthcare programs funded by the US, and the cessation of services will have an impact on the communities that rely on these vital resources.
The US government’s decision to pause funding for international health initiatives reflects broader political shifts under the new administration. While the freeze on funding is temporary, the consequences for countries like Lesotho—where much of the healthcare infrastructure is supported by external funds—are far-reaching.
Mrs. Mohasi urged all stakeholders involved in the healthcare sector to stay resilient during this challenging period and to continue advocating for support in order to ensure that essential healthcare services are not disrupted for vulnerable communities.
“We remain committed to our mission of providing quality health services to the people of Lesotho. We will work with our partners and explore alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of this funding freeze,” she added.
As the situation evolves, CHAL is expected to explore ways to navigate the challenges posed by the suspension of US funding, and the organization remains hopeful that the services provided by the BBB project will be restored once the temporary freeze is lifted.
The suspension of US-funded projects marks a significant turning point for Lesotho’s healthcare system, underscoring the country’s reliance on international support and highlighting the need for continued investment in local infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability in health services.
